Definition of maternity

demure Definition: (adjective) modest or shy. Petersons.com

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< maternal

maternity ward >

ma·ter·ni·ty    (m-tûrn-t) KEY  

NOUN:
pl. ma·ter·ni·ties

1. The state of being a mother; motherhood.
2. The feelings or characteristics associated with being a mother; motherliness.
3. A maternity ward.

ADJECTIVE:

Relating to or effective during pregnancy, childbirth, or the first months of motherhood: a maternity dress; maternity leave.

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ETYMOLOGY:
French maternité, from Medieval Latin mternits, from Latin mternus, maternal ; see maternal

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